It might sound strange, but if you find small white stones outside of your home then you need to contact authorities as a matter of urgency.

Criminals have been leaving these little white stones outside people’s homes, on their drives or under car tyres, as signs to other thieves to let them know ‘vulnerable’ people live in the property, according to the Mirror.

So far this sinister venture has been reported in several roads in Portishead, Bristol and worryingly, a man delivering charity bags has been spotted dropping the stones around the neighbourhood.

The co-ordinator of the neighbourhood watch, Nick Gough said:
"This alert should not cause you undue alarm but is a reminder to stay vigilant.We believe certain roads are being targeted by burglars because of suspicious activity detected over the past few days.

These distinctive stones are believed to have been left outside of properties which look unoccupied.
This includes stones being left under rear tyres of some cars, possibly to act as a test for homeowner activity at the address.

The male placing the stones is delivering charity bags for unwanted clothing.Police patrols in the areas currently affected have been increased but please be vigilant."

Not exactly a pleasant thought and definitely something to keep an eye out for!